Pirates hire Clint Hurdle as manager

Hurdle, who cites former Pirates managers Danny Murtaugh, Bill Virdon and Chuck Tanner as influences, managed in Triple-A, Double-A and Single A before going 534-625 as the Rockies‘ manager from 2002-09.

Hurdle’s upbeat attitude and enthusiasm contrast to the more stoic personality of predecessor Russell, whose players sometimes were unhappy when he stayed in the dugout and refused to argue close calls.

“Clint can reach young players, he can reach veteran players, Huntington said. “He does have a great personality, he’s got a big presence and he’s very charismatic, which allows him to be a tremendous leader.”

Hurdle didn’t demand the right to hire his entire coaching staff, and will consider candidates who currently work in the organization. Longtime Pirates minor league field coordinator Jeff Banister, the bench coach during the final two months of last season, was the other finalist.